Perito Moreno Ice Trek: Minitrekking With Walkways and Boat Ride

The Perito Moreno Ice Trek offers an exhilarating day of exploration on one of the world’s few advancing glaciers. Guided by experienced professionals, adventurers traverse a network of safe walkways, providing awe-inspiring vistas of the glacier’s majestic ice walls and the occasional calving event. But the adventure doesn’t end there – participants cap off their journey with a scenic boat ride across the glacial lake, seeing the icy wonders of this natural wonder.

Key Points

• Explore the Perito Moreno Glacier through a guided minitrekking tour, which includes walking on the ice field and traversing boardwalk/catwalk networks.
• Enjoy a boat ride across the glacial lake to witness the breathtaking face of the glacier and potential calving events.
• Comprehensive gear, including crampons and warm, waterproof clothing, is provided by the tour operator for a comfortable and safe experience.
• The tour starts at Puerto Bajo las Sombras – Hielo y Aventura, with convenient transportation options and hotel pickup available.
• The moderate-difficulty trek is suitable for reasonably fit individuals aged 8 to 65, with personalized attention from experienced bilingual guides.

Trekking the Perito Moreno Glacier

Trekking across the Perito Moreno Glacier is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for adventurous travelers visiting El Calafate, Argentina.

The full-day excursion takes hikers onto the massive, constantly-moving ice field, where they can explore its unique features.

The full-day excursion takes hikers onto the massive, constantly-moving ice field, where they can explore its unique features.

With the guidance of experienced bilingual guides, participants don crampons and trek across the glacier’s crevasses and ridges, marveling at its impressive scale and natural beauty.

The trek is moderate in difficulty, suitable for those with a reasonable level of fitness.

It’s an unforgettable way to experience one of Patagonia’s most impressive natural wonders up close.

Navigating the Walkways

Before reaching the glacier, visitors are treated to a network of boardwalks and catwalks that offer stunning vantage points to view the Perito Moreno Glacier.

These walkways provide a safe and easy way to navigate the rugged terrain, allowing visitors to get up close to the ice.

The walkways extend along the southern shore of the glacial lake, offering panoramic views of the glacier’s massive walls and the frequent calving events.

It’s an ideal spot to take in the sheer scale and power of this natural wonder before embarking on the glacier trek itself.

Boarding the Boat Ride

After trekking across the boardwalks, visitors board a boat to cross the glacial lake to the Perito Moreno Glacier.

The boat ride offers:

1. Stunning views of the massive, imposing glacier‘s face.

2. A chance to witness the dynamic process of calving, where large chunks of ice break off and crash into the water.

3. Educational commentary from the guides about the glacier’s history and formation.

4. A serene moment to take in the breathtaking scenery before the final approach to the glacier.

This boat crossing provides a unique vantage point to fully appreciate the sheer scale and power of the Perito Moreno Glacier.

Gear and Equipment Provided

When embarking on the Perito Moreno ice trek, visitors needn’t worry about equipment as the tour provider supplies all the necessary gear.

This includes crampons to grip the ice, as well as sturdy trekking poles to aid with balance and stability. Warm, waterproof jackets and pants are also provided to shield trekkers from the elements.

The guides ensure a proper fit and give instructions on using the gear. With this high-quality equipment, participants can focus on exploring the magnificent glacier without having to lug their own bulky gear.

It’s one less thing to worry about on this remarkable adventure.

Getting to the Meeting Point

Travelers embark on the Perito Moreno ice trek from the meeting point at Puerto Bajo las Sombras – Hielo y Aventura, located within Los Glaciares National Park near El Calafate.

The tour offers convenient transportation options:

Convenient transportation options are available, including hotel pickup and a designated meeting point close to your location.

1. Hotel pickup is available for guests staying in centrally located hotels.

2. Pickup times vary between 7:30 AM and 10:00 AM, with the tour starting at 8:00 AM.

3. For those outside the designated pickup area, the closest meeting point is confirmed upon booking.

4. The activity concludes back at the original meeting point, where the adventure began.

Tour Group Size and Composition

The Perito Moreno ice trek is a shared tour, typically accommodating between 10 to 15 participants.

This group size allows for a more intimate and interactive experience, fostering camaraderie among fellow trekkers. The small group setting enables the guide to provide personalized attention and ensure everyone’s needs are met.

Whether you’re traveling solo or with companions, you’ll have the opportunity to bond with like-minded adventurers as you embark on this unforgettable glacial journey together.

The group composition is diverse, attracting both local and international visitors seeking to witness the stunning Perito Moreno Glacier up close.

Participant Fitness and Restrictions

Participants must meet certain fitness requirements to take part in the Perito Moreno ice trek. This full-day tour on the glacier has a minimum age of 8 and a maximum age of 65 due to insurance restrictions.

A moderate fitness level is required, as the trek involves:

1. Walking on uneven, icy terrain.

2. Ascending and descending stairs and walkways.

3. Maintaining balance and stability on the glacier.

4. Enduring exposure to outdoor elements like wind, cold, and sun.

Participants should come prepared with proper gear and an adventurous spirit to fully experience this unique glacial trek.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Trekking Gear?

Yes, you can bring your own trekking gear. The tour provides all necessary equipment, but you’re welcome to use your own if you prefer. Just ensure it’s suitable for glacier trekking and hiking.

How Long Is the Return Journey From the Meeting Point?

The tour concludes at the meeting point, Puerto Bajo las Sombras – Hielo y Aventura, in Parque Nacional los Glaciares, El Calafate. There’s no information provided about the duration of the return journey from the meeting point.

Are Restrooms Available During the Glacier Trek?

Yes, there are restrooms available during the glacier trek. According to the tour overview, the guided activities include a mini-trek across the Perito Moreno Glacier, and all necessary trekking gear is provided for participants.

Can I Purchase Additional Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Travelers can purchase additional food and drinks during the tour. The tour includes an option to purchase lunch, but you’re also welcome to bring your own. Snacks and beverages may be available for purchase as well.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

Yes, there’s an option to extend the tour duration. Customers can add extra time to explore the glacier’s walkways or take a boat ride for an additional fee. This allows for a more in-depth glacial experience.

The Sum Up

The Perito Moreno Ice Trek offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore one of nature’s most captivating wonders. With its guided minitrekking experience, walkways providing breathtaking views, and scenic boat ride, this excursion promises an unforgettable adventure for moderately fit individuals aged 8 to 65. Enjoy the icy grandeur of the Perito Moreno Glacier and create lasting memories amidst its majestic landscapes.